Many of us embrace the fall season by tackling yard work and household chores like raking leaves, cleaning windows, and preparing our homes for winter. While these tasks are typically only tedious, they can lead to serious injuries if not done with care. Some of the various injuries you could sustain if not careful include falls from ladders, back strains, and even fractures. Below are some helpful tips to reduce your risk of injury as you prepare for the fall and winter months ahead.
1. Ladder Safety: Don’t Overreach
Cleaning gutters, washing windows, or hanging fall decorations often means climbing a ladder. But it’s important to remember that ladders are a leading cause of household injuries. To stay safe:
- Use a sturdy, level ladder. Ensure it’s fully opened and locked before climbing. Make sure the ground is even, especially on sloped terrain.
- Have a spotter. Whenever possible, have someone hold the ladder steady.
- Avoid overreaching. Always move the ladder instead of stretching beyond your reach. Overextending can cause you to lose your balance.
A study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that more than 500,000 people in the U.S. are treated annually for ladder-related injuries, with 300 fatalities . Simple precautions can prevent these injuries from happening.
2. Rake Leaves Without Straining Your Back
Raking leaves is a quintessential fall activity, but it can lead to back and muscle strains. To avoid injury:
- Warm up. Treat raking like a workout—stretch before and after.
- Use proper posture. Bend at your knees, not your back, and avoid twisting as you rake.
- Take breaks. Raking for long periods without a break can fatigue your muscles, leading to injuries.
If you experience prolonged pain after raking, it may indicate a more serious injury like a muscle tear. In such cases, seeking medical attention and contacting a personal injury attorney could be beneficial.
3. Yard Cleanup: Be Mindful of Slips and Trips
Yards are often filled with uneven terrain, tree roots, and wet leaves, all of which can contribute to trip-and-fall injuries. Take these steps to protect yourself:
- Wear proper footwear. Choose shoes with good traction to avoid slipping on wet grass or leaves.
- Clear walkways. Remove tools, hoses, and other obstacles from pathways.
- Be cautious after rainfall. Wet leaves can be slippery, increasing the risk of falls.
Slip and fall injuries can lead to serious consequences, including fractures or head trauma.
4. Lift Heavy Objects Safely
Moving lawn furniture, storing gardening equipment, or hauling bags of leaves can all lead to lifting injuries if not done properly. To avoid strains:
- Use your legs, not your back. Bend at the knees and keep the object close to your body as you lift.
- Avoid lifting heavy objects alone. Ask for help if something is too heavy to lift on your own.
- Take breaks. Overexertion is a common cause of lifting-related injuries.
Protecting Yourself and Your Loved Ones
Safety should always come first. Simple preventative measures can keep you safe and help avoid preventable injuries.